Skimming through the players on USA Basketball, it is obvious that the team is filled with younger guards who could easily make the squad. But that doesn't mean that old hands such as Lebron James or even Kobe Bryant should be overlooked.
We all know that James is interested in a roster spot; but now, it seems Bryant is too. But the thing is Bryant wants a slot only if he earns it.
Recall that one of the prerequisites that USA Basketball director Jerry Colangelo gave was that interested players should be at the minicamp in Las Vegas.
There were some who appeared at the camp but did not play. That included Kevin Durant, Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving, all coming off injuries. Bryant, on the other hand, was not around. So how can he possibly make the team?
Before getting into that, it may be wise to take into consideration that Bryant is set to turn 37 and will be entering the final year of his contract with the Lakers. He could retire, although that angle is not 100% certain for now. Most of it may depend on how the coming season holds up for him — hopefully, free from injury.
Now, if that happens, then the Black Mamba could be considered. So does this mean that Bryant will try to make the team even though Colangelo said that interested players should have been in Las Vegas recently?
There is no question that Bryant was a key figure when he played for Team USA in 2008 and 2012. But looking forward to the 2016 Olympics, would the rules be bent for Bryant? What about other players like Derrick Rose, would the rules be bent for him too?
Bryant could be an integral part; and while many would love to see him on the team, only 12 slots are open.
For those who caught the USA Basketball camp, one can easily see the number of players who could fill in those slots. And for Bryant? Well, the final word will still be coming from coach Mike Krzyzewski and his staff.
